I set out to find the ideal pants and I think I came pretty close with the Klim Chinook pants (2009 model). After extensive research I figured I wanted the Dakar model, however when I went in to try them on, I ended up with the Chinook.
In northern Cal, I do most of my riding in the fall and spring, so something mid-temperature is ideal. I needed something adjustable for cold mornings and hot afternoons. Plus a little rain protection.
I went into my local dealer who happens to stock Klim gear (Scuderia, SF) and started trying on all the models. The Chinook had the best features for what I needed. Here’s some thoughts:
- I really wanted an understated pant that didn’t scream ‘Travis Pastrana Freestyle’ and wasn’t covered in pink leopard skin or dayglo. The gray/black model was perfect.
- The fit was spot on. I’m 5’10, 165 and 34 waist. The size 34 were absolutely perfect, and the waist adjuster was right in the middle setting.
- I use the big Thor knee-brace style knee guards, which are gigantic but fit nicely under the knees.
- I prefer an over-the-boot design, however I made an exception for these pants because of their fit. I know I’m going to regret this on the first deep water crossing!
- The waist has a nice comfortable velcro adjuster on both sides. The inside rear portion also had a silicone print to keep shirts tucked in.
- There’s a good combination of stretch panels in the right places, plus thicker leather inside the knees.
- The lowest part of the leg is pure mesh, which makes it very comfortable tucking into boots.
- My last pants had 10 pockets. These only have 2, which is much better (no more shuffling through 9 pockets before you find the correct one).
- The main zip vents on the pants work well.
- Built in hip pads are nicely placed and perforated for ventilation.
The Bad:
- Under-boot design is going to soak my feet in water crossings.
- I could use just one small pocket below the waist for my wallet/keys. Keeping keys down by my knees is a bit unnerving.
- The pants can get toasty even with the vents open.
- The hip pads could be a bit thicker.
- Assembled in Vietnam, nothing wrong with this but I’d pay a bit more for US made.
The author, Sasha
I’m impressed overall and will be curious how they hold up over time. So far so good. The Dakar models would be way too hot for the kind of riding I do and honestly the fit felt much looser and more roomy. The Mojave models are very very ventilated and designed for big heat. Same with the Baja. Tool cool for what I need. The Revolt pants were nice but the materials didn’t feel as high-end. Plus they were missing a velcro-adjuster to tighten around boots.
As Little Red Riding Hood said, The Chinook felt just right. Not too hot, not too cool.
I appreciate that Klim is addressing trail riders who don’t want to look like motocross kids, need strong gear and are willing to pay more for it.
$129.99 Available from Klim USA: http://www.klimusa.com
